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Swinging an Ice Axe

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The trick here is to try to execute a swing with as much efficiency as possible.

Try to keep a light but firm grip on the tool, this will save energy. If you hold to lightly however, the tool will spin and the pick will bounce off the ice at a weird angle and could be potentially dangerous for your eyes and teeth!

Think with precision when striking the ice and swing with your elbow and wrists. Find the sweet spot by listening to the solid sound the pick makes when it hits solid ice. This will happen with minimal fracturing of the ice and minimal effort.

There are many ways to swing the axe depending on the conditions or the location you are trying to hit. It takes experience and practice in different conditions to find the sweet spot. In all cases try to hit the ice with your pick and not your knuckles!

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Originally published on outdoorsica.com